what side should a pregnant woman sleep on

Experts generally recommend that pregnant women sleep on their left side, especially as the pregnancy progresses and the abdomen expands. Sleeping on the left side allows for optimal blood flow from the inferior vena cava, which carries blood to the heart and in turn to the fetus. It also helps improve blood flow for the pregnant person and decreases the likelihood of swelling in the ankles and legs. While either side is okay, left is best. Sleeping on the right side is also considered safe and can help give optimal blood flow to the baby. It is generally recommended to avoid sleeping on the back or stomach after a certain point in pregnancy. Sleeping on the back in late pregnancy can cause lower oxygen levels in the baby and changes in heart-rate patterns. Pregnant women can try keeping their legs and knees bent and putting a pillow between their legs to relieve stress on the back.